Tottenham’s Dejan Kulusevski has stirred the football world by placing former Arsenal player Willian above the likes of Gareth Bale in his ranking of the top five wingers in Premier League history. Despite Willian’s tumultuous stint at Arsenal, Kulusevski commends him, asserting that the Brazilian is the fourth-best winger in the league’s history.
Willian, once a key figure for Chelsea, arrived at Arsenal on a free transfer in 2020, a move that proved disastrous. Despite winning multiple trophies with Chelsea, including two Premier League titles, Willian’s form plummeted at the Emirates. Arsenal terminated his contract after a dismal one-year spell.
Kulusevski’s praise for Willian is unexpected, given the Brazilian’s lackluster performances during his time at Arsenal, where he managed just one goal in 37 appearances across all competitions. Many criticized the decision to sign Willian, considering it one of Mikel Arteta’s worst moves as Arsenal manager.
The Swedish Tottenham star, however, remains steadfast in his admiration for Willian’s skills, labeling him an “unbelievable player” and emphasizing his underrated status. Kulusevski even places Willian ahead of Gareth Bale, a player widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s greatest wingers.
The controversial ranking by Kulusevski highlights the subjective nature of football opinions. While Willian’s time at Arsenal is largely viewed as a failure, Kulusevski’s perspective sheds light on the impact a player can leave beyond statistical measures. Despite Willian’s struggles, Kulusevski appreciates the Brazilian’s playing style and the experience of facing him on the pitch. This unusual take on Willian’s legacy in the Premier League adds an intriguing layer to the ongoing debates about football’s greatest players and the unpredictable nature of the sport.
